The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has announced that the crescent moon marking the end of Ramadan has been sighted in Nigeria, confirming that Eid-el-Fitr will be observed on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

The announcement, made on Saturday night, follows reports of moon sightings from various locations across the country.

“With the sighting of the moon, Sunday, March 30, 2025, will be the 1st of Shawwal 1446 AH, marking the day for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration,” the Sultan, who is also the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, stated.

He congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and urged them to sustain the virtues of patience, piety, and charity beyond the holy month.

The Sultan also called on Nigerians to pray for peace, unity, and progress in the country, while advising worshippers to observe the Eid prayers peacefully and in accordance with Islamic teachings.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-03-29

Joy and elation enveloped the Idotun Community Junior High School, a suburb of Lekki, on Thursday when Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, in partnership with Dangote Fertilisers Limited, awarded scholarships to 473 students from 10 secondary schools and 7 tertiary institutions. In addition, the company donated eight hundred and four (804) tables and chairs to secondary schools in their host communities of Ibeju-Lekki.

Students, parents, teachers, and community leaders expressed their immense joy as the scholarship certificates were presented to the beneficiaries, alongside educational materials, including textbooks and notebooks, as part of the 5th Edition of the Dangote Scholarship Award Programme.

Group Vice President of Oil & Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, remarked that the event symbolised a shared vision—a partnership between Dangote Industries and the host communities, designed to build a foundation for sustained growth, one that is rooted in education, innovation, and opportunity.

He further emphasised that the initiative is not merely a celebration of achievements but a reaffirmation of the group's commitment to nurturing potential, empowering communities, and shaping a brighter future for the leaders of tomorrow.

"Education, as we all know, is the passport to the future. At Dangote, we believe that education is not just a privilege but a right that every child deserves. This belief has fueled our dedication to supporting students and schools in our host communities since the year 2019 when we launched the Scholarship Award Programme as a key pillar of our Community Development Plan, with year-on-year progress," he said.

Praising the students for their academic dedication, which he acknowledged has resulted in remarkable growth over the years, Mr. Edwin highlighted the impressive year-on-year progress—from 56 students in 2019 to 450 beneficiaries in 2024. He stated that the company is deeply inspired by their determination and is confident that the resources provided will empower them to realise their dreams.

He also noted that the decision to donate the 804 tables and chairs to schools was part of the company’s broader commitment to enhancing the learning environment. This gesture, he emphasised, is a testament to the company’s dedication to ensuring that every child has access to a conducive environment for learning, where they can grow, dream, and thrive.

"To the scholars here today, you are at the heart of our initiatives. Your dreams, aspirations, and hard work inspire us to continue making a difference. As you embark on your academic journeys, remember that the support you receive today is a seed sown in fertile ground. Nurture it with dedication, perseverance, and a spirit of excellence, and it will yield remarkable fruits in your future.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our community leaders, dedicated school administrators who work tirelessly to ensure the success of these initiatives. Your partnership and support are invaluable, and we are honored to work alongside you in empowering the next generation," he added.

The Managing Director of Dangote Industries Free Zone Development Company (DIFZDC), Olayinka Akande, urged the beneficiaries to uphold excellence, which he identified as one of the core values of Dangote Industries Limited. Emphasising the importance of dedication and diligence, he encouraged the students to aim high, noting that with such attributes, some of them could rise to become governors, ministers, captains of industry, or even the next 'Edwin' in the future.

The Head of Social Performance at Dangote Petroleum & Petrochemicals, Ogunleye Mojisola, highlighted that the education intervention is one of the four pillars of the Community Development Plan, which was jointly designed with the community. Reflecting on the scheme’s success since its inception in 2019, Ogunleye expressed gratitude to the management for consistently providing the necessary resources to sustain the programme.

"The increase in the number of beneficiaries each year is a clear indication that the initiative is fulfilling its purpose, motivating students to study hard and achieve academic excellence," she remarked.

The Aro of Lekki Kingdom, Chief Adewale Salami, who represented the Oni of Lekki, conveyed his appreciation for the intervention, affirming that the company is helping to shape the future of the community. He also expressed the kingdom’s continued support for Dangote Industries Limited.

The Chairman of the Lekki Coastal Area Development Association, Alhaji Wasiu Ayeola, praised the founder and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, for transforming what was once a hunting ground of rabbits and lizards into a multibillion-dollar investment that benefits not only the local community and Lagos but also Nigeria and the world. He emphasised that education is the most effective way to shape the future of the community.

Several beneficiaries, including Atibere Peter from Lagos State University, Dauda Omolara from Community Senior High School, Magbon Segun, and Ganiu Ayomide from Community Senior High School, Akodo, among others, expressed their heartfelt gratitude. They noted that the scholarship and support would motivate them to study harder and alleviate the financial burden on their parents and guardians.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-21

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has declared businesswoman and socialite Aisha Achimugu wanted.

The agency’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, made this known in a circular released via the EFCC’s X handle on Friday.

According to the EFCC, Achimugu is wanted by the agency in an alleged case of criminal conspiracy and money laundering.

The circular reads, “The public is hereby notified that Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu, whose photograph appears above is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)in an alleged case of criminal conspiracy and money laundering.

“Achimugu, 51, is an indigene of Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State and her last known address is 6C, Rudolf Close, Maitama, Abuja.

“Anybody with useful information as to her whereabouts should please contact the commission at its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt or Abuja offices or through 08093322644, its email address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or the nearest police station or other security agencies.”

The anti-graft agency, in a letter, had summoned the socialite to appear at its Port Harcourt office on March 5 over alleged money laundering and a high-profile investment scam.

The letter, dated March 4 and signed by the EFCC’s acting zonal director in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Adebayo Adeniyi, was sent to Achimugu’s residential address in Abuja.

“This commission is currently investigating a case in which the need to obtain certain clarification from you becomes imperative.

“In view of the above, you are kindly requested to attend an interview with the undersigned through the Head of Investigation on Wednesday, 5th March 2025, by 10:00 hours prompt,” the letter reads.

However, rather than reporting to the EFCC office as requested by the agency, Achimugu was said to have travelled out of Nigeria on Thursday, March 6.

Following her alleged departure from the country, the agency obtained an arrest warrant and declared her wanted.

If you recall,in January 2024,Aisha Achimugu, attracted a huge buzz online and offline as a result of the lavish seven-day birthday party she threw to mark her golden jubilee at Calivigny Island and Silversands in Grenada; as well as in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-03-28

Veteran socialite and businesswoman, Khadijat Adebisi Edionseri, popularly Cash Madam,is dead.She was 89years oild.

The Ogun State-born business woman, who became popular for over six decades due to her charity lifestyle, died in Abeokuta, her hometown.

According to a statement by the family on Monday  Cash Madam, who passed on yesterday evening, would be laid to rest at her residence in Abeokuta, by 4.00 pm, according to Islamic rites.

The statement reads, “With deep gratitude to Allah for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Princess Kadijat Abike Adebisi Edionseri (née Elegbede), who returned to her Creator on 5th January 2025 at the age of 89, following a brief illness.

“Her life was a shining example of grace, dignity, and unwavering faith. Princess Edionseri touched the lives of many through her wisdom, kindness, and dedication to both her family and her community. She taught us the importance of love, resilience, and faith in Allah, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

“As we grieve this monumental loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life she lived. Her laughter, warmth, and the values she instilled will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us as we navigate life without her physical presence.

“The funeral will take place according to Islamic rites on Monday, 6th January 2025, at 4:00 PM at her residence in Abeokuta GRA.”It would be recalled that the deceased had assisted many who had financial troubles including late Ayinla Omowura, after he had an auto crash that would have resulted in the amputation of his legs.

Meanwhile,Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State,has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Cash Madam. "I,on behalf of myself and the people pf Ogun state,expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Alhaja Chief Adebisi Edionseri.Alhaja Adebisi's contributions to the business community and her vibrant social presence,will be reference points for generations yet unborn.Her influence extended far and wide,making her a cherished figure,in the hearts of many.As the state mourns the loss of such a formidable personality, the legacy of Chief Adebisi Edionseri will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and social leaders',Governor Abiodun said.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-01-06

The federal government has declared Monday and Tuesday as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

Magdalene Ajani, the permanent secretary in the ministry of interior, announced the holidays in a statement issued on Wednesday.

Eid-el-Fitr festival is celebrated by Muslims worldwide after observing Ramadan fasting for 29 or 30 days.Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of interior, asked all Muslims to “embrace the virtues of self-discipline, compassion, generosity and peace, emphasising the importance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity in building a harmonious society”.

The minister urged Nigerians to “pray for the nation’s peace, stability, and prosperity during this festive period”, adding that Eid-el-Fitr should inspire unity and cooperation.

“Dr. Tunji-Ojo also encouraged citizens to celebrate safely and responsibly, while remembering the less privileged through acts of kindness and charity, in keeping with the true spirit of Ramadan and Eid,” the statement reads.

“On behalf of the Federal Government, he extended heartfelt Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslim faithful and prayed that the blessings of the season bring happiness, success, and fulfillment to everyone.”

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-03-27

Bisola Kola-Daisi, the eldest child of the late former Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, has died at the age of 42. The mother of three died on Thursday morning in the United Kingdom during a brief illness. Before her death, Bisola served as a Special Adviser to the Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu.

She was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s luxury retail scene and a dedicated philanthropist. Bisola is married to a well-respected Ibadan-born politician and bank executive, Kolapo Kola-Daisi. Details regarding the funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed condolences to Florence Ajimobi, wife of the immediate past governor of the state, Abiola Ajimobi, over the death of her daughter.

A statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, in Ibadan, the state capital, described it “as affable and good-spirited, a sad and shocking development.”

He also commiserated with the Bashorun Kola Daisi’s family as well as the husband of the deceased, Idris Kola-Daisi.

Makinde urged both families to take heart, praying to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss and to avert such a sad occurrence in both families.

Also, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South under the All Progressives Congress in the National Assembly, has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of Bisola.

Alli, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas in Ibadan, described her demise as a tragic and painful loss, not just to her family but to the state and the nation at large.

He further described her as a brilliant and accomplished professional whose contributions would be sorely missed.

The lawmaker, therefore, extended his heartfelt condolences to her husband, Kolapo Kola-Daisi, her beloved mother, Florence Ajimobi, and the entire Kola-Daisi and Ajimobi families.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-03-27

Binta Nyako, judge of a federal high court in Abuja, has adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), indefinitely.

Nyako adjourned the suit on Monday following Kanu’s insistence that the judge cannot preside over his case since she had recused herself.

On September 24, Nyako recused herself from Kanu’s case after an oral application by the defendant.

“I hereby recuse myself and remit the case file back to the chief judge,” she had said.

Kanu directly told Nyako that he no longer had confidence in her handling of his trial.

However, John Tsoho, chief judge of the federal high court, returned the file to Nyako on the ground that Kanu’s application must be formally brought before the court through a motion on notice.

Consequently, in a letter dated December 5, 2024, and addressed to the deputy chief registrar, Adegboyega Awomolo, the prosecution counsel, asked the court to fix a date for the commencement of trial.

Opposing the request for a trial date, Aloy Ejimakor, Kanu’s counsel, in a letter dated December 9, 2024 said the ruling of the judge recusing herself remains valid.

Subsequently, Ejimakor asked that the case be transferred to a federal high court in the south-east if no judge in Abuja is willing to preside over it.

ROWDY COURT SESSION

At the resumed session on February 10, Awomolo told the court that the prosecution counsel have filed and served all necessary processes in the suit and that they were ready to proceed with trial.

However, Ejimakor insisted that was not the issue before the court.

Nyako explained that although she does not want to preside over the case, the chief judge has refused her recusal and directed the defendant to file a formal motion asking for a reassignment of the case to another judge.

While the lawyers in the suit argued over whether a formal motion was required, Kanu interjected: “I want to speak”, he hollered. 

Asked by the judge if he wanted to take over from his lawyer, the defendant said: “Yes, I want to take over.”

The separatist said he was only in court because of the respect he had for the court, but that Nyako no longer had the jurisdiction to preside over his case following her recusal in September.

Raging at the prosecution counsel, Kanu said: “A grown-up man like you who should be in the village and who should be making sure that things are done properly is here subverting the law.”

Addressing the judge, he bellowed: “I don’t recognise the authority of this court to preside over my case. Everything you said here is meaningless to me.

“Why is it that when it comes to my case, everything is turned upside-down?”

He said the memo sent by the chief judge returning the case file to Nyako cannot override the enrolled order of the court made on September 24.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2025-02-11

United Bank for Africa through UBA Foundation, its corporate social responsibility arm, has donated the sum of N500 million to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund as part of its continued commitment to secure an environment for individuals and businesses.

The N500m cheque was presented to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, by the UBA Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, who was accompanied by the bank’s Deputy Managing Director, Mr. Muyiwa Akinyemi, at the State House, Marina, Lagos on Sunday.

Speaking during the presentation, Elumelu reiterated the bank’s dedication to supporting initiatives that ensure the safety and prosperity of communities across Nigeria.

He said, “At UBA, we understand that security is critical for economic growth and societal well-being. Our donation to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund is a reflection of the bank’s belief in building safer communities to enhance the quality of life for all.

“We are proud to partner with the Lagos State Government to achieve this shared vision of a secure environment conducive to investment and development.”

While receiving the N500m cheque, Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation to the UBA Group and UBA Foundation for their significant contribution and commended Elumelu for his unwavering commitment to impactful projects, the state’s progress, and well-being.

“We are grateful to the UBA Group for their significant contribution to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund. This donation will strengthen our efforts to enhance security and protect our citizens. Together we are building a safer Lagos for all,” he said.

This latest gesture aligns with UBA Foundation’s Special Projects initiative, which focuses on addressing pressing societal issues through strategic partnerships and impactful interventions.

Over the years, the UBA Foundation has actively contributed to enhancing education, the environment, and economic empowerment and special projects such as these critical donations across Africa.

The Foundation’s commitment to security as a driver of sustainable development is evident in its support for programs like the LSSTF.

Group Chairman, UBA, emphasised the bank’s role as a leader in giving back to society.

He explained that in pledging its support to the state’s efforts at improving security, UBA recognises the vital link between safety and economic stability.

“This partnership with the Lagos State Government reinforces the Bank’s belief in collaborative efforts as the key to addressing security challenges and creating environments where individuals and businesses can thrive.

“We believe that a secure Lagos State is integral to a secure Nigeria. UBA Foundation will continue to support transformative initiatives that uplift lives and drive development,” he said.

UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Education, the Environment, Economic Empowerment, and other Special Projects.

By

Ayobami Adedeji Society 2024-12-16